Arrive in Manali, a breathtaking hill station nestled in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Start your trip by getting acquainted with the serene surroundings of the Beas River. Take a leisurely walk along the river banks, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and stunning views of the mountains. In the afternoon, explore the charming Old Manali, known for its traditional wooden houses and narrow winding lanes. End your day with a visit to the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, surrounded by lush green cedar forests.
Beas River: No cost, 1 hour
Old Manali: No cost, 2 hours
Hadimba Devi Temple: No cost, 1 hour
Restaurants
A cozy cafe located in Old Manali, serving delicious and freshly baked pastries and bread. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 150 INR per person.
A popular restaurant near Mall Road, offering a diverse menu of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
A rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the mountains, known for its authentic Himachali cuisine. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 31: Rohtang Pass Excursion
Embark on an exciting day trip to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass located at an altitude of 3,979 meters. Marvel at the scenic beauty as you drive through the winding roads surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Spend your morning playing in the snow, participating in thrilling snow activities, or simply admiring the majestic landscapes. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Solang Valley and enjoy adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing.
Solang Valley: Cost for activities, variable, 3 hours
Restaurants
Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Café 1947, a charming restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and delicious food. Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast platter consisting of fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Savor a delicious lunch at Johnson's Café, a popular eatery offering a wide range of Indian and continental dishes. Treat yourself to their famous chicken biryani along with a refreshing glass of lemonade. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Experience a delightful dinner at The Corner House, a cozy restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine. Indulge in their wood-fired pizzas, homemade pasta, and delectable desserts such as tiramisu. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Wednesday, November 1: Manikaran and Kasol Exploration
Head towards Manikaran, a pilgrimage town famous for its hot springs and stunning views of the Parvati Valley. Begin your day by visiting the revered Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib and taking a dip in the medicinal hot springs. Explore the local markets and savor delicious langar (free community meal) at the gurudwara. In the afternoon, proceed towards the nearby village of Kasol, often referred to as "Mini Israel," and experience its unique hippie culture and scenic beauty.
Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib: No cost, 4 hours
Kasol: No cost, 3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café 1947, located in Kasol, offering a tranquil river view setting. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a scrumptious lunch, head to Evergreen Café in Manikaran. Enjoy their mouthwatering Israeli food like falafel and hummus. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
End your day with a flavorful dinner at Johnson's Café in Kasol, known for its diverse menu ranging from Indian to Italian cuisines. Don't miss their wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Thursday, November 2: Naggar Castle and Jana Waterfall
Visit the Naggar Castle, a historic palace located in the Naggar town, which offers panoramic views of the Kullu Valley and the snow-covered Himalayas. Explore the ancient castle, showcasing a blend of traditional Himalayan and European-style architecture. In the afternoon, venture towards the picturesque Jana Waterfall, tucked away in the small village of Jana. Enjoy the serenity of the surroundings and witness the cascading waterfall amidst lush greenery.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Johnson's Café, located in Manali. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options including omelettes, pancakes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about INR 250 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Café 1947 situated in Old Manali. Known for its relaxed atmosphere and riverside seating, this café serves delicious Italian and Mexican dishes. Average cost for a meal is about INR 500 per person.
Indulge in a scrumptious dinner at Casa Bella Vista, a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. They offer a range of cuisine options including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about INR 800 per person.
Friday, November 3: Roam Around Mall Road
Conclude your trip by indulging in some leisurely exploration of Mall Road, the bustling heart of Manali. Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the cozy cafes, followed by shopping for local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Himachali clothing. Savor the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants lined along the road. In the evening, marvel at the sunset views from the Van Vihar Park and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Beas River.
Mall Road: Shopping and food expenses, variable, 4 hours
Van Vihar Park: Entry fee - INR 20 per person, 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Johnson's Cafe, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delectable pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, visit Chopsticks Restaurant, a popular eatery offering a wide range of Chinese and Tibetan dishes. Don't miss their mouthwatering momos and flavorful noodles. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary journey at The Lazy Dog Lounge, a charming restaurant known for its delicious European and Indian fusion cuisine. From wood-fired pizzas to succulent kebabs, their menu has something for everyone. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Manali, make sure to visit the picturesque village of Vashisht, renowned for its hot water springs and ancient temples. Take a dip in the natural hot springs and experience their therapeutic properties. Another offbeat attraction is the charming village of Malana, known for its distinct culture and remote location. Trek through the scenic landscapes and immerse yourself in the unique traditions of the Malana people. These hidden gems provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region, away from the tourist crowds.